Hi All...Well, I finally got my 2nd opinion neurosurgeon appt. and was so pleased with this 2nd doctor. He runs a very nice spine center, has three P.A.s and the P.A. I had was wonderful, spent 45 minutes with me explaining my M.R.I. pictures in detail, explaining every detail about the surgery I would have, answered all of my and my husband's questions. Then the neurosurgeon came in and spent another 45 minutes with me. What a huge difference between the 1st neurosurgeon when I got only 20 minutes and was feeling so rushed and had so many questions when I left. This doctor was wonderful and is less agressive and wants to do only two levels, C5-6, 6-7. We left feeling very comfortable with our decision for my surgery and I have total faith in this doctor. He did agree with the 1st doctor's opinion that I absolutely have to have this surgery and there isn't a choice of any other treatments, I'll have physical therapy afterwards. He was very optimistic that I'll have a full recovery. I have cervical myelopathy which will just progress. I left his office with an armful of pamphlets and information to learn about my condition, unlike the first neurosurgeon who left me hanging out in the wind and so shocked about my newly diagnosed neck condition. That feeling of confidence in my doctor means a lot to me. Surgery is 2/21. Have to say again how much I appreciate this site and all of the input from everyone...I was blindsided by this. I'll keep posting and best wishes to all of you going through this.
Hugs,
Meg
It's good you got a second opinion. Having faith in your surgery team is essential.
Good luck, Jim
Click on my user name to see my medical history
You get what you get......not what you deserve! I stole that from Susan (RIP)
Today is yours to embrace....for tomorrow who knows what will be starring you in the face
Thanks Jim!
That sounds much better Meg. Having your surgeon and his PA both give you time and explaining exactly what they need to do and then giving you time to ask your questions (and hubby too) must really help to accept what is now needed.
21st Feb is not long away, but best to get on with it. Have you read the useful items for surgery list? Now you have time to shop for them and get your home organised for your post surgery restrictions.
Any questions you may have - just ask away.
Take care
Grade 2 spondylolisthesis causing severe stenosis + DDD
L4/L5 decompression (laminectomy) and PLIF 19th March 2010
Herniations at T12/L1, T9/T10 and T8/T9 (mildly indenting cord)
Significant cervical spondylosis from C3-C7
C3/C4 and C4/C5 are compressing the cord (mild to moderate)
Been referred to a neurologist to rule out MS
Thanks for your nice thoughts...I feel good now about the surgery and the NS I now have. My lists are made and I'll be ready!
Meg
Great to hear that you have such a great feeling about your surgeon! Good that you have all your lists made and are very organized. I am still doing last minute things...and my surgery is tomorrow.
Wishing you all the best! The time will be here before you know it!
back injury May 2010
DDD,abutment both l5 nerve roots and s1 nerve root.herniated disc L5/S1 bulging discs L3-L5,osteophytes,degenerative facets,stenosis and coccydynia
discectomy/laminectomy L4/L5 L5/S1 July 2011- unsuccessful
ADR L5/S1 February 6 2012
I haven't been on the site for a week so sorry I'm just now responding to your post...I hope your surgery went well and your recovery is going well..Best wishes and when you feel up to sitting at the puter keep me posted on how you're doing.
Hugs,
Meg
I hope that your surgery tomorrow goes to plan and that you will receive good care and pain control afterwards.
We'll be here waiting to hear how you are and to support you through the recovery.
Grade 2 spondylolisthesis causing severe stenosis + DDD
L4/L5 decompression (laminectomy) and PLIF 19th March 2010
Herniations at T12/L1, T9/T10 and T8/T9 (mildly indenting cord)
Significant cervical spondylosis from C3-C7
C3/C4 and C4/C5 are compressing the cord (mild to moderate)
Been referred to a neurologist to rule out MS
Hi Meg
,
Your situations sounds familiar to mine, only in reverse. I had a wonderful neurosurgeon and PA where I was living when I had my 2 level ACDF at C5/6 & C6/7 in June 2009. They both were so compassionate about their patients. The neurosurgeon told my hubby & I their main concern was treating the patients and resolving their issues. I have since moved and at present do not need a neorosursurgeon. I just don't know where I will go should that occur, but cross that bridge it I get there ... no hurry! Anyway, I am new SH website & wanted to add my prayers and speedy recovery to you upcoimg "adventure". Confidence in your medical providers is one key to a comfortable recovery. Take care and keep us posted. God Bless.
Rassy
Rassy's Story
Under House Arrest Without the Ankle Bracelet
The remarks I make are strictly my own based on my personal experiences.
Hi Rassy, Thanks for the kind thoughts and I'm glad you had a good outcome with your ACDF. Hearing everyone's success stories gives me confidence!
Hugs,
Meg